Lighting technology
Light for our purposes is defined by light intensity and colour point. The illumination level indicates the luminance on a surface. It has a distance-based effect on the light intensity. A specific lateral emission is also frequently defined, i.e. there are specifications on the light intensity outside the centrepoint. The colour point can be stated with reference to the standardised CIE colour system (x,y coordinates) or as spectral light distribution. In the specifications, we can normally refer to the relevant guidelines by the UIC, ECE or TSI.
In our in-house lighting laboratory, our specialists can measure the following parameters using calibrated equipment:
· Light intensity and distribution in cd in distance up to 10m
· Illumination level in lx
· Colour points
· Spectral light distribution (k values)
· Measurements in the system, i.e. with on-board panes and structural environments
We carry out measurements for development support, approval preparation and quality assurance, in particular. We work with independent specialist institutions for conformity measurements, e.g. for approval. We are also happy to show our customers the lights on the test bench.
Almost all new lights are manufactured with LED technology. The following decision-making criteria frequently apply:
LED
· Life span approx. 30,000 hours and more, defined as life span in the standard
· All light functions, marker and tail lights and headlights are now possible. The focal point here is often on marker / tail light functions with lower light intensities.
· New design options, light contributes to the appearance and recognition of the vehicle
· Light intensities are increasing – Standardised top values are reliably achieved
· Thermal management of high-beam headlights is critical
· Colour management in order to avoid glare for other participants due to cold white light
· “Fit and Forget” – Accessibility as a design requirement is becoming less important
Halogen and light bulb systems
· Light is produced using a spiral-wound filament, red light through the filter, e.g. glass cylinder
· High distribution in stock / replacement parts
· Life span of modern H1 lamps > 1,200 hours (longlife)
· Cost-effective, great diversity of light intensities and designs
Xenon / HID
· B3 life span approx. 1800 hours / TC approx. 3,000 hours
· Brightest light based on space requirement, > 400,000 cd in a 145mmD headlight is possible
· Starter unit required
· Low heat development (through 35W)
· Perfect for small installation spaces and strong light
· Higher lamp costs
Fluorescent bulbs
· Interior lights
· Life spans > 10,000 hours now possible
· Higher colour rendering index increases well-being